Fire leaves Gardner 3-decker uninhabitable

GARDNER -- A two-alarm fire at a three-decker home on Nichols Street early this morning sent one firefighter to the hospital for minor injuries and left the building uninhabitable.

Fire Lt. Michael C. Boris said the fire that was reported just before 2 a.m. at 72 Nichols St. is under investigation by State Police for the state Fire Marshal's office and fire investigators from the Gardner Police and Fire Departments. The cause remains undetermined.

The fire was called in initially as an explosion, but firefighters found fire in the cellar when they arrived.

"One firefighter was transported to the hospital for cuts on his hand," Lt. Boris said. "He received stitches and was released."

Firefighters had to open up the walls and ceilings of the building, he said, to make sure the fire was extinguished.

Firefighters were able to knock down the fire in about 45 minutes. Most of the crews were recalled by 6 a.m. although one engine company remained at the fire scene until 2 p.m.

Capt. Ares said there was extensive damage to wiring and other equipment in the cellar. The fire also caused some damage to the apartment on the first floor.